What Can a Citizen Do? By Dave Eggers
J323.6 Eggers
With bold illustrations and simple, engaging text, this charming book provides examples and sends the message that citizens aren't born but are made by actions taken to help others and the world they live in. A citizen’s not what you are – a citizen is what you do. A citizen cannot forget, the world is more than you, reads the text, ending with a challenge for each of us. This free printable will help your family create a plan to make a difference.
How to Be a Good Citizen by Emily James
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Vibrant photos accompany a question and answer format for elementary-age students about How to Be a Good Citizen. Addressing age-appropriate opportunities for citizenship, such as taking care of our neighbors, our planet and our community resources (including library books!), this book offers a clear look at citizenship. It also includes a glossary of terms, suggested websites and books for more learning and some questions for family discussion at the end of the book. Keep the conversation going by sharing this video on citizenship together.
What’s the Big Deal About Freedom? by Ruby Shamir
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From the Constitution to civil rights, from women's rights to the four freedoms, this kid-friendly picture book filled with fun facts and historical trivia shows how America got the nickname "land of the free." Clarkston illustrator Matt Faulkner’s vibrant watercolor and pencil sketches showcase the diverse collection of key figures in our historic fights for freedom, which define the character of our nation. Children may also take a different perspective on the drudgery of school after reading about the fight for children to be educated, rather than working. If you want to explore the history of child labor further, check out this site.
Out and About at City Hall by Nancy Garhan Attebury
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Go on a field trip to city hall and find out what kinds of plans are made there; who works there; what the mayor does and more. This book offers many resources at the end, including a challenge for kids to plan their own city, a booklist and a safe web browser to continue exploring. This fun scavenger hunt challenges kids to learn more about their own communities.
Vote for Me! All About Civics by Kirsten Hall
JRead Hall
A middle-level easy reader, Vote for Me!, follows a class president election as each student considers what he/she would have to offer as a leader. Of course, kindness wins! Try out some of these conversation starters for helping children see things from someone else’s point of view, and encouraging kindness.
We Are the Change
J323.092 WE
Sixteen award-winning children's book artists illustrate the civil rights quotations that inspire them in this stirring and beautiful book. Featuring an introduction by Harry Belafonte, words from Eleanor Roosevelt, Maya Angelou, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. among others, this inspirational collection sets a powerful example for generations of young leaders to come. Sneak a peak at some of the beautiful artwork here.